CEBU – Around 30 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Cebu successfully completed the Small Enterprise Acceleration Lab (SEAL) – Business Expansion thru Training and Acceleration (BETA) program, which was designed to elevate businesses through workshops and trade fair activities aimed at enhancing market competitiveness and accelerating growth.

The program, held from October 1-4, 2024, in Cebu City, was conducted in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), BPI Foundation, BPI Direct Banko, and DTI Region 7.

Participants engaged in intensive workshops covering critical business topics such as effective negotiation skills, visual merchandising, digital payment solutions, product diversification, and financial education. These sessions were led by industry experts from PTTC, BPI Foundation, and BPI Direct Banko, providing MSMEs with essential tools to thrive in today’s dynamic marketplace.

On the third day, participants had the opportunity to showcase their products during a mini trade fair and product pitching session, generating estimated total sales of over Php 45,000. This event provided MSMEs with a platform to present their products to potential partners and customers, fostering business growth and visibility.

The event concluded with a graduation and awards ceremony on the fourth day, recognizing outstanding MSMEs in several categories, including:

Best Booth (Php 20,000.00 Each):

  • We Farm Foods
  • Audreys Confectioneries
  • Approvative Digestive Food Hub
  • Carson Hills Agricultural Farm

Top 10 Best Pitching MSMEs (Php 25,000.00 Each):

  • Arapal Livelihood Center Incorporated
  • Approvative Digestive Food Hub
  • Brew Szn Cafe
  • Handworks Cleaning Services
  • Margo Craft Shop
  • Gallivanter Travel and Tours
  • Sinugbox
  • Cebu Fryd Food and Beverage Stall
  • Bakerlane Bakery
  • Weaving World Handicrafts Manufacturing

According to the SEAL-BETA, awardees may use their cash prizes to further invest in their business operations. These funds may be utilized to expand their product lines, upgrade equipment, enhance packaging and marketing efforts, or explore new distribution channels. By taking advantage of these resources, MSMEs can continually innovate and grow in a competitive business environment.

The SEAL-BETA program is a collaborative initiative aimed at empowering local MSMEs by equipping them with practical skills and business opportunities. Through this program, Cebu-based MSMEs are now better prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern marketplace and position themselves for sustainable growth.

This program continues to support the growth and expansion of MSMEs by offering training and capacity-building opportunities. By organizing workshops, trade fairs, and networking sessions, the program enhances the competitiveness of small enterprises, driving innovation and accelerating business growth across the Philippines. (DTI 7/PR) ♦

Date of release: 23 October 2024

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